City Rolling Out Upgraded Leaf Collection Program

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Richmond’s annual leaf removal program kicks off Monday, October 2.  Residents will notice some significant service changes made to make the process operate more effectively and efficiently. In prior years the leaf program cost between $1 million and more than $2 million annually. It is estimated the improved program will cost approximately $1.05 million annually.  

Three options for leaf removal will be available

Option 1 | Free Bagged Collection

  • Begins October 2  
  • Up to 10 bags collected on trash day
  • Biodegradable plastic bags preferred
  • Place bags near supercan  
Option 2 | Collection by Sector

  • Sector 1 – Wed. trash collection | leaves must be bagged by Nov. 1 | all bags Nov. 1 – Nov. 11
  • Sector 2 – Thur. trash collection | leaves must be bagged by Nov. 16 | all bags collected between Nov. 16 – Nov. 25
  • Sector 3 – Mon. trash collection | leaves must be bagged by Nov. 27 | all bags collected between Nov. 27 – Dec. 9
  • Sector 4 – Tues. trash collection | leaves must be bagged by Dec. 12 | all bags collected between Dec. 12 – Dec. 30
Option 3 | $30 Vacuum Service


  • Begins November 1 and will continue based upon available schedule
  • Rake leaves to front of property line
  • Two ways to request vacuum service
    • Call 646-LEAF
    • Print, fill out form at http://www.richmondgov.com/PublicWorks/Leafcollection.aspx and mail to the Department of Public Works
  • A one week window will be provided based upon availability.
On October 2, residents can begin calling the leaf hotline, 646-LEAF, for all matters related to the leaf program, including scheduling vacuum service.  Residents may also send e-mail inquiries to Leafprogram@richmondgov.com. 


For more information on the leaf program, such as where residents can dispose of loose leaves on their own or how elderly or disabled city residents may be able to get assistance raking leaves, visit Richmondgov.com.